Co-op Academy Belle Vue recently hosted an unforgettable Culture Day Celebration, showcasing the vibrant diversity within its student body and fostering a sense of unity amongst the community. Held on Friday, March 1st, the event was a testament to the school's commitment to embracing cultural heritage, promoting inclusivity and developing our students personally to be effective members of society.

Students from various cultural backgrounds enthusiastically participated in the festivities, donning traditional attire that reflected their unique heritage. From colourful sarees to intricate patterns of African fabrics, the school's corridors transformed into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, embodying the spirit of #TheBelleVueDifference.

Leading up to Culture day, our academy pioneers designed and organised a number of events to build the excitement. Students placed pins in a map of the world as a visual representation of our diversity as an academy. On Wednesday, all students took part in a cultural quiz with 9B and 7C being crowned the winners! On Thursday, 13 students delivered presentations to their year groups about their culture and heritage, followed by Q&A educating our community about the culture of others and making us more knowledgeable and more personally developed as a result. 

The day began with Blake from year 9 winning our big CARE challenge in assembly by correctly recalling 22 different world flags to beat the competition. Well done Blake!

One of the highlights of the day was the Cultural Runway led by members of our Community & Diversity committee, where students strutted confidently displaying the fashion of their culture and heritage. 

The Photo Booth proved to be a popular attraction, as students captured cherished memories with their friends while adorned in their cultural attire. Photos of this are available from the photo gallery section of the website. 

Culinary diversity took centre stage at the Cultural Food Tasting, where students indulged in an array of delectable dishes, promoting appreciation for global cuisines and flavours.

Music played a pivotal role in the day's festivities, with students immersing themselves in the rhythmic beats and melodies of different cultures. 

Mr Haste emphasised the importance of Culture Day in fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance within the school community. "Culture Day is not just about celebrating our differences, but also about embracing what unites us, It's a day where we come together as one, celebrating the unique contributions of each individual and remembering one of our academy mottos that we are all different but equal."

As the festivities came to a close, students left with hearts full of pride and a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the fabric of Co-op Academy Belle Vue.

See the photo album from the event here.